Members of Gamma Omicron Chapter of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society International celebrated the chapter’s 73rd birthday as they met at the Kenedy Elementary School on Saturday, April 6.

The chapter was organized April 20, 1940, in Kenedy at the Goff Hotel, and as charter members were identified, current members reminisced about the service of these women to the organization. During the program portion of the meeting, First Vice President Pam Burge led a game of “Pin the Hat on the Founder” in which members placed hats representing the purposes of the DKG Society on a woman’s silhouette. Advancing the professional interest and position of women in education is one of the seven purposes of which Pam spoke.

After members enjoyed a delicious brunch and visiting with colleagues, President Lana Massengale called the meeting to order. Jan Anderson presented a reading titled “What We Learn Through Our Ages” in honor of the birthday celebration. Burge led the pledge to the American flag. Betty Thornton, chairman of the Scholarship Committee, recommended two young women to receive Gamma Omicron’s book grants. Members voted to award $400 grants to Aileen Lundquist, a senior at Karnes City High School, and Korrie Rader of Beeville. Members also voted to pay the $50 registration fee for all Gamma Omicron members who will be attending the Alpha State Convention in June in Austin. At the convention, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of workshops and hear outstanding speakers. Massengale and Dr. Linda Vegh will have quilts on display in the Visual Arts Room at the convention and Pam Kerlick will have a display of photos. Other members were urged to exhibit their artwork there also.

One feature of the chapter meeting that members look forward to is hearing about the activities and accomplishments of their Gamma Omicron sisters. Myrtle Lucke showed the chapter the gold medals she had won the day before at the Senior Games in San Antonio. Myrtle received gold medals in the basketball free throw contest and women’s 3-on-3 basketball, the 80+ division. The members offered her their congratulations and gave her a standing ovation.

To complete the chapter birthday celebration the Kenedy hostesses had provided a cake decorated with red roses, the symbol of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society. Members enjoyed their cake and then sang the Delta Kappa Gamma Song. DKG is an organization of key women educators that promotes professional and personal growth of women educators and excellence in education.